Lee Improv Team to Kick Off Spring Season

Friday, February 08, 2013

By Tyler Beckett

Lee University's Improvisational Comedy Team, Shenanigans, is making its return this weekend with more of its fun and unique brand of comedy. Packed houses are expected at each of the three shows, with a Friday night performance at 8 p.m. and Saturday performances at 7 and 9 p.m. in the Rose Lecture Hall.

"I try to go to as many shenanigans shows as I can," said senior and long-time fan Erica Swindle. "I just love them so much and they make me laugh every time."

Shenanigans started in 2007 as Lee's first Improv Team. Skits are unscripted, featuring a set of various games that encourage the creativity of both actors and audience. A moderator may force team members to change the last spoken word on a whim, incorporate surprise quotes into their dialogue, or just radically change the scene, all in the interest of discovering new possibilities in even the simplest of scenes.

"Improvisational theater is unlimited creativity," said Shenanigans alum Richard Yeakley. "You never know what you will see, and that is half the fun."

Shenanigans's recent events have drawn crowds of as many as 400 people ready for unending laughter. Yet, while almost always containing comic elements, the stories often include drama and intrigue, bringing the audience to cheer for declarations of love or to gasp aloud at unsuspected revelations.

"It's neat to watch Shenanigans use their games to tell a story," said freshman and frequent audience member Paige Elliot, "especially the way you can see the chemistry and friendship between the group members. They're all quick to invent unique characters and plots, too."

Shenanigans improv shows typically last two hours. Tickets are $1 and will be available for purchase at the door an hour before the show.

For more information, contact team coach Kaylen Quintin at kquint00@leeu.edu or 774-451-7932.